K-P govt reviews monsoon preparedness

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah chaired a high-level meeting to review the province's preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season and to strategize precautionary measures against potential flooding and rain-related damages.

The meeting was attended by administrative secretaries, Director General of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), and other relevant officials. Commissioners from various districts participated via video link.

A detailed review was conducted of areas identified as vulnerable to flooding. The meeting was informed that a comprehensive Monsoon Contingency Plan has been formulated, drawing lessons from the 2022 floods.

Chief Secretary Shah emphasized the need for ongoing action against illegal constructions and encroachments near rivers and water channels. He assured that necessary funds for flood mitigation measures were being secured.

In his briefing, the DG PDMA said that Rescue 1122 has been equipped with 50 de-watering pumps in flood-prone urban districts including DI Khan, Lakki Marwat, Kohat, Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Malakand (Batkhela), Swat (Mingora), Mansehra, and Abbottabad. Additionally, a de-watering unit is being established in Peshawar.

The meeting also reviewed the availability of resources required by PDMA to tackle potential emergency situations.